Padre Island National Seashore issues red tide advisory, may close beaches

People with respiratory health issues advised not to visit

PADRE ISLAND, Texas – Padre Island National Seashore issued a red tide advisory Thursday afternoon.

"We have been monitoring red tide levels in the park since it first appeared in Port Aransas, and it has now reached levels that can negatively impact park visitors,” PINS posted in part on Facebook.

Recommended Videos



Red tide is essentially a harmful algae bloom that produces toxins.

Hundreds of dead fish wash up on Texas beach, waters test positive for red tide

The announcement of red tide at PINS comes on the heels of a large fish kill in Corpus Christi where waters tested positive for red tide near Packery Channel.

People with respiratory issues are being advised not to visit the area due to toxins from red tide becoming airborne.

"The smell of these aerosolized toxins is similar to ammonia. If these toxins are inhaled they can cause coughing, sneezing, itchy throat, and in some populations severe headaches and asthma attacks,” the PINS Facebook post reads.

Eye irritation can occur for anyone who swims in water with a high concentration of red tide.

Pet fatalities have occurred in the past several years from red tide as dogs are known to be more susceptible to the toxins, according to PINS.

Beaches closures may occur due to high levels of red tide at PINS. Anyone who wants a list of updated beach closures is advised to check the PINS Facebook page.

RED TIDE ADVISORY As the disturbance in the Gulf of Mexico continues to bring high winds, heavy rain, and...

Posted by Padre Island National Seashore on Thursday, September 13, 2018